The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36), specifically the 420d variant with 190 horsepower, was produced from 2017 to 2021 as part of the F36 lifecycle facelift. This model represents BMW’s attempt to blend the sporty aesthetics of the 4 Series coupe with the practicality of a four-door Gran Coupe body style. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the 4 Series Gran Coupe lineup, the 420d aimed to provide a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability, appealing to buyers seeking a premium vehicle for both daily commuting and longer journeys. It sat below the more powerful 430d and 440i models, and above the base 420i.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 4 Series |
| Generation | 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 420d (190 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1-5.5 l/100 km (46.1 – 42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7-3.9 l/100 km (63.6 – 60.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2-4.5 l/100 km (56 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 111-119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 263.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 95.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B47D20A |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2080 kg (4585.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1300 l (45.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 745 kg (1642.44 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4640 mm (182.68 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1389 mm (54.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1592 mm (62.68 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17; 225/45 R18; 255/40 R18; 225/40 R19; 255/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 420d Gran Coupe is the BMW B47D20A 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and refinement. The B47 utilizes a second-generation common rail direct fuel injection system operating at pressures up to 2,000 bar, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. A single twin-scroll turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology provides a broad torque curve and minimizes turbo lag. The engine also features an intercooler to further enhance performance. The 420d was typically paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, although an 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP) was also available as an option. The automatic transmission contributed to improved fuel economy and smoother gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 190 hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the B47 engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 7.1-7.5 seconds, making it competitive within its class. While not as exhilarating as the higher-powered 4 Series variants, the 420d offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The engine’s peak torque was available from 1750-2500 rpm, providing strong mid-range acceleration for overtaking and merging onto highways. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience, while the optional automatic provided convenience and efficiency. Compared to the 420i (petrol), the 420d prioritized fuel economy and torque delivery over outright horsepower.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 420d Gran Coupe came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including automatic climate control, BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display, power-adjustable front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Optional extras included a larger 8.8-inch iDrive display with navigation, a premium sound system, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior upholstery options typically included cloth, leatherette, and full leather. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally included Sport Line, Luxury Line, and M Sport packages, each offering unique styling cues and additional features.
Chassis & Braking
The F36 4 Series Gran Coupe featured a sophisticated chassis design with a focus on handling and ride comfort. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs and struts, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup. This configuration provided a good balance between agility and stability. The 420d typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features. The weight distribution was relatively balanced, contributing to the car’s neutral handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 420d Gran Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its more powerful siblings. Compared to the 420i, the 420d offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a more practical choice for drivers covering long distances. Against competitors like the Audi A5 Sportback and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, the 420d Gran Coupe held its own in terms of performance, features, and overall refinement.
Legacy
The B47 engine, found in the 420d, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although some early models experienced issues with timing chain tensioners. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. On the used car market, the 420d Gran Coupe represents a good value proposition, offering a blend of luxury, practicality, and fuel efficiency. Its continued popularity is a testament to its well-rounded design and engineering. The F36 generation, including the 420d, helped solidify BMW’s position as a leader in the premium compact executive car segment.
